Protein: Foods, Benefits, Uses and Side effects

Collagen is the main structural protein present in the extracellular matrix and connective tissue. Collagen is the most abundant protein in our body and is a major component of the skin. It helps in maintaining skin elasticity and strength, which is likely to reduce the effects of ageing on the skin. It also helps in restoring skin moisture, which can help in achieving positive effects for individuals with dry skin.

In a study involving a group of women receiving collagen supplement, significant improvement in skin elasticity was observed, when compared with the group receiving a placebo treatment (inert substance given having no treatment value). It also helped in restoring skin's moisture.

Read more: How to get smooth and soft skin

Another research conducted to determine the effects of collagen supplementation, particularly on ageing skin revealed that an oral intake of these agents was likely to reduce the visibility of skin wrinkles by having an effect on the synthesis of dermal matrix. So, it is a good idea to enhance the protein content of your diet as it will help in guarding your skin.

Other than this, collagen has also found to have an important role in the process of wound healing in all stages. Type 3 collagen is produced in the most initial stages of wound healing. Its use has also been indicated for the management of different types of injuries like superficial injuries, pressure sores (wound formed due to prolonged bed rest), diabetic ulcers (open wound developing on the foot of diabetics), burn wounds, abrasions (injury caused due to scraping or rubbing of the skin). These indications stress on the healing properties of collagen. So, it is often a common constituent of skin creams, lotions and other over-the-counter products.

Collagen is also known to reduce and improve the appearance of cellulite in women. Researchers have suggested positive effects with long-term oral use. It is recommended to enhance your dietary intake of proteins to aid in the formation and maintenance of collagen protein. Over-the-counter creams and products can also be used. However, it is highly recommended to not take collagen supplements unless prescribed by your physician.

Read more: Skincare routine for a flawless skin

Keratin is a fibrous protein and the main constituent of hair, nails and other tissues. Our hair is comprised of 99% keratin, which has exceptional mechanical properties and protective strength. Proteins and amino acids help in maintaining the structure of keratin. So, it is essential to consume enough protein-rich foods for its maintenance.

A deficiency of protein often leads to changes in the structure of hair, due to structural changes in keratin. This deficiency is invariably associated with hair fall, hair loss and thinning of hair. Limited dietary consumption of protein-rich foods, particularly those containing essential amino acids is likely to cause their deficiency.

Amino acids perform specific functions for your hair. Sulfur-containing amino acids like L-methionine aid in hair strength by enhancing the levels of sulfur in the hair shaft. It has been acknowledged that sulfur is essential for hair growth and also affects the general appearance of your hair. Its deficiency is known to cause hair loss in individuals. A study conducted on men demonstrated that male pattern baldness (the most common type of alopecia in men) occurs due to a diet rich in foods inhibiting the absorption of amino acids by the body, causing its deficiency.

Since a deficiency of amino acids and proteins is suggestive of hair loss, it is recommended to include more dietary proteins in your daily routine. However, you need to be wary of your dietary sources, since certain sources (rich in L-Lysine) may reduce the absorption of the amino acids essential for your hair. Some of the sources of L-Lysine are red meats, which are harmful to your general health as well.

Read more: Brahmi benefits

Proteins being the building blocks are the most essential nutrients in children. They aid in the proper growth and development of the child and are essential for the health of their bones and muscles. It is essential to maintain adequate levels of dietary proteins in children to lay a strong foundation. Protein deficiency during the early stages of life is very hazardous and may cause protein-energy malnutrition in children. It is likely to cause severe malnutrition in them, which can lead to serious disorders like kwashiorkor and marasmus. These children are often severely underweight and may have stunted or retarded growth along with wasting (very less body weight in proportion to height). Their bone structure may also be affected, presenting with softer bones, increasing the risk of fractures and malformations.

Read more: Vitamin D for bones

Due to the prevalence of malnutrition and poverty, these disorders are quite common in India and can be managed with adequate dietary consumption of proteins. Children with protein deficiency are also more prone to severe childhood infections and illnesses, which may affect their survival. Anemia is also common among these children since protein is involved in the synthesis of hemoglobin.

To avoid this, sufficient protein intake must be ensured in children as per the dosages recommended for their age. Breastmilk is a good source of protein for infants and is highly recommended for them. Solid foods rich in protein are recommended when the child starts eating at about 6 months of age.

13 grams of protein is indicated for children aged 1 to 3. You may also note that additional protein requirement is indicated for vegetarian and underweight children. You are recommended to pay a visit to a doctor to ensure the best nutrition for your child.

(Read more: Teething age in babies)

A balanced diet must contain 10-35% of proteins to meet daily energy requirements. Proteins provide 15% of energy and are major constituents of muscles. Protein-rich diets meet the nutritional and energy requirements of the body while increasing the muscular mass and replacing the unwanted fats. A high protein and low carbohydrate diet is associated with greater effects of weight loss, functioning as appetite suppressants. It enabled an improved speed in the initial process of weight loss but did not guarantee any long-term effects if no changes in the number of calories were made.

Read more: Weight loss diet chart

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While an exceedingly high protein diet has certain health risks, it is safe to include a source of lean protein, low-fat in your diet. This along with a lower caloric intake will enable weight loss and will also help to meet your major energy needs. Experts, however suggest that you don't make any major changes in your diet or take a very high protein diet since it can have side effects. You must consult your physician or dietician to seek the best nutritional advise, as per your health status.

Proteins are essential for the formation of various neurotransmitters, which perform several functions in the brain. These neurotransmitters are made of amino acids and other than improving brain functions help in facilitating the functioning of vital organs, like the heart, liver, etc.

Tryptophan is the most essential amino acid required for optimal brain function and its deficiency is known to disrupt normal behaviour. Tryptophan is also essential for cognitive functioning (memory and analytical skills) of the brain, so higher levels may be required with advancing age. While the recommended dosages for various age groups are not completely known, it is definitely a good idea to increase the dietary intake of proteins to improve brain function.

Read more: Dementia symptoms

In addition to aiding in weight loss, high protein diets have also been found to be preventive of cardiac disorders. In a study involving 8000 women, it was observed that women consuming a high protein diet were at a 30% lesser risk of developing cardiovascular disorders as compared to those on a high carbohydrate diet. This observation was constant when the consumed protein was derived from plant-based sources.

Lower blood pressure and reduction in low-density lipoprotein or bad cholesterol are also associated with this diet.

So, it can be said that proteins as a dietary constituent are mainly cardioprotective, but you must avoid consuming animal foods, particularly red meats.

Read more: Treatment of high blood pressure

Since proteins are essential for muscle growth and function, they are required in higher quantities in athletes and bodybuilders and are even known to improve athletic performance. Athletes and coaches often tend to increase their dietary intake to meet these demands. Research evidence has demonstrated that protein supplementation improves training sessions and also leads to better muscle gains. Dietary intake is known to enhance the levels of proteins available to the muscles and it also prevents the loss of lean muscles. So, individuals with high levels of physical activity are advised to increase their protein intake after consulting with their physician and trainer (depending on the level of training).

Read more: How much activity do I need per week